Genesis 6:19 - Of every living thing of all flesh, you shall bring two of every sort into the ship, to keep them alive with you. They shall be male and female.

Generated Verse: Genesis 6:19

What does "Genesis 6:19" mean?


This verse, Genesis 6:19, is part of the biblical account of Noah's Ark and the Great Flood. It outlines God's instruction to Noah regarding the animals he is to bring onto the Ark. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:

"Of every living thing of all flesh": This refers to all animals that breathe and have flesh, encompassing a wide variety of creatures. It's important to note that interpretations vary as to whether this means every single species, or a representative sample of different kinds of animals.

"you shall bring two of every sort into the ship": Noah is commanded to bring a pair of each type of animal into the Ark. The phrase "of every sort" implies a categorization or distinct kind of animal. This is a key point where interpretations diverge, as the definition of "sort" is debated. Is it species, genus, family, or something else?

"to keep them alive with you": The purpose of bringing the animals is to preserve them during the flood. Noah is responsible for their care and survival on the Ark.

"They shall be male and female": The two animals of each "sort" are to be a male and a female, ensuring their ability to reproduce and repopulate the earth after the flood subsides.

In summary, Genesis 6:19 instructs Noah to bring a male and female of each kind of animal onto the Ark to preserve them from the impending flood and ensure the continuation of animal life on Earth after the flood.

Important Considerations and Interpretations:

Scope of "Every Living Thing": Some interpret this literally, meaning Noah had to collect every single species on Earth. Others understand it as a representative sample, or only those animals within a certain geographic area.
Definition of "Sort": The precise meaning of "sort" (Hebrew: min) is debated. Creationists often interpret it to mean "kind," which is broader than species, allowing for variations within a kind after the flood. Other interpretations suggest it refers to something closer to family or genus.
Logistical Challenges: A literal interpretation (every species, two of each) raises significant logistical challenges considering the sheer number of species and the size constraints of the Ark. This is one reason why some scholars believe the story is not meant to be taken as a literal historical account.
Purpose of the Verse: Regardless of the interpretation, the verse emphasizes God's intention to preserve life on Earth and the role of Noah in carrying out that plan. It highlights the theme of renewal and the opportunity for life to begin anew after the flood.

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